America is a country that has an obesity problem, and most people are aware of this. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one-third of the adult population, and 17 percent of minors, are considered to be obese. The average individual across the nation struggles with food issues to some degree or another, but many may find it surprising that those who work in the food industry, such as chefs, have an even tougher time.

“I am passionate about what I do for a living, but I must admit that it can be a real challenge,” explains Chef Scott Jenkins, the executive chef at Arlington-based Extra Virgin restaurant. “Being around all the food all the time makes me want to enjoy it, yet I need to balance that with the need to be healthy and watch how much I eat.”